Project 1: Site analysis & Design response - Design for community (20% group)
For our first project in this module, we began by engaging with the site and its community to understand how architecture can effectively respond to its environmental and social context. Under the theme "Embracing the Environment and Community," we explored the Taman Wawasan Recreational Park in Puchong through site visits and research to uncover its natural features, landscape, and community needs. These findings will form the foundation for our future design proposals, P1B and P1C, which aim to promote sustainability, inclusivity, and community connection.
Tasks :
1. Site Analysis Tasks (Group-Based):We are divided into task groups, each focusing on specific site aspects:
-Group 1: Site measurements, drawings, and digital modelling
-Group 2: Social content – demographics, user profiles, activities
-Group 3: Natural & man-made features – vegetation, topography, drainage
-Group 4: Circulation & access – pedestrian and vehicular paths
-Group 5: Atmosphere & character – sound, visual, sensorial experience
2. We conduct site visits and collect data through sketches, diagrams, photos, videos, audio, and interviews.
3. We perform a SWOT analysis to identify the site’s potentials and limitations.
4. We summarize our findings into design-relevant insights.
5. Design Response Tasks (Tutorial Group-Based):
-Based on the site analysis, we formulate a design response manifesto that guides our architectural approach for P1B and P1C.
-We propose a site plan showing the location of both structures with justifications for placement, connectivity, and proximity.
-We include quoted community feedback to support our programmatic and design choices.
-Our response is visually represented through sketches, diagrams, annotated images, collages, photogrammetry, and 3D drawings.
OUTCOMES
TAMAN WAWASAN RECREATION CENTRESITE DATA COLLECTIONP1A BOOKLET
SITE ANALYSIS BOARD
REFLECTION
Participating in Project 1A deepened my understanding of how architectural design is informed by its context and users. Through detailed site visits, environmental observations, and community engagement at Taman Wawasan, I learned how to look beyond a site's physical layout to analyze its atmosphere, natural conditions, and social dynamics. Working with the group helped me develop skills in groupwork, active listening, and translating practical needs into early design concepts. I also realized the importance of rooting architectural concepts in environmental sustainability and inclusiveness. This experience prepared me to approach future design phases with greater insight and clarity of purpose.
Discipline Specific Knowledge
Citizenship and Global Perspectives
This project allowed me to apply architectural theory to real-world site analysis and design. I learned how to translate environmental and community needs into early-stage design strategies that can truly inform architectural practice.
Interacting with the local community has helped me understand the diverse needs of users and the importance of inclusive design. This has made me more aware of the role I play in creating socially responsible and sustainable spaces.